NuggetvsColumbus

Nugget and Columbus are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Nugget

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9.5–16%

Beta acid

3–5.8%

Total oil

0.9–3.3 mL

United States

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Nugget

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusEarthy

Only in Nugget

HerbalGingerPineappleGeraniumLycheeHerbalCoconut

Only in Columbus

Black currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Property

PropertyNuggetColumbus
Alpha acid9.5–16%14–18%
Beta acid3–5.8%4.5–6%
Co-humulone22–30%28–35%
Total oil0.9–3.3 mL2.5–4.5 mL
Myrcene48–59%45–55%
Humulene12–22%9–14%
Caryophyllene7–10%6–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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